CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park, Loop, Andersonville, Evanston

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Lakeview: A small, brightly lit building between 3800 and 3900 North Lake Shore Drive has caught the attention of Chicagoans. What used to be a bus switching station is now a storage area for the Sheridan Garden Triangle. This non-profit is striving to revamp the piece of land next to the shed. The land is owned by the city of Chicago and the group was started by president Jill Weinberg six years ago. The garden now includes perennials, trees, and bushes. It also has its own high-end irrigation system. If you’re interested in contributing, you can donate to this organization at   https://sheridantrianglegarden.org/donate/.

Lincoln Park: A Chicago original, the Goose Island Brewpub, will be closing its doors on Sunday evening. Ken Stout, president of Goose Island, has stated the need for renovation. New brewing equipment will be installed, in addition to other innovations. With other new brewing pubs on the scene, like Revolution Brewing pub and the incoming Off Color Brewing taproom, Goose Island is looking to revamp in order to stay competitive. Never fear, the brewery and taproom at 1800 W. Fulton St. will remain open during the upgrade.

Bucktown and Wicker Park: Can’t make it to New Orleans for Cajun food? Fifolet, a restaurant in Wicker Park, has you covered. The New Orleans style eatery replaced Division Ale House in early November. Mouthwatering plates are served family style and craft cocktails are a must-have. The menu features vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free dishes as well. From a scan of the menu, the  Fried Alligator Etouffee and Fried Green Tomatoes have my mouth watering. Appetizers start at $6 with the priciest entrée coming in at $16.

Chicago Loop: From January 9 to February 16, the Art Institute will offer their annual tradition: free winter weekdays. Illinois residents can enter the museum for free during regular operating hours, Monday through Friday. Take a day off work and take a wander through this incredible museum.

Andersonville: Mark your calendars for March 15! Author Roxanne Gay is coming to an event hosted by Women and Children First bookstore in Andersonville. She will be reading sections from and leading discussion about her new book, “Difficult Women.” Britt Julious, a journalist, will join her in conversation. The event will take place at Senn High School, 5900 N. Glenwood Ave . It’s not too late to get tickets, as sales just began early Tuesday morning. Tickets are reasonably priced. $30 buys you both a book and a seat for the discussion.

Evanston: Are your kiddos singers? Dancers? Actors? Do they dream of being a mermaid? Lucky for you, the Evanston Children’s Theatre is hosting auditions for The Little Mermaid this Tuesday, January 10. Children from ages 8 through the 8th grade are welcome to audition and no previous experience is required. Rehearsals will be held either Tuesdays or Thursdays and on Saturdays. Performances are March 17 through the 20 at the Levy Center. If you’re interested, call 847-448-8263. Auditions will be held at 1823 Church Street in Evanston from 4 to 6 pm on Tuesday.